The 38th meeting of the District Level Committee under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Mechanism and the 7th review meeting of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) for Leh district were held on May 25 at the VC Hall, DC Office Leh, under the chairmanship of District Magistrate Leh, Romil Singh Donk.

Representatives from various departments, law enforcement agencies, health institutions, and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Srinagar, attended the meeting.

The committee discussed key issues including drug trafficking trends, cross-state investigations, awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, strengthening drug detection systems, rehabilitation measures, and drug demand reduction activities.

Officials informed the meeting that 11 narcotics-related cases have been registered in Leh district so far, including cases involving heroin, charas, peddler network tracking, and a breakthrough involving a Delhi-based gang linked to drug peddling in Leh.

Concerns were raised over changing drug trafficking patterns, overdose cases, and smuggling routes in the region. Authorities also reviewed and stressed strict enforcement of CCTV surveillance, permit-based sales, and implementation of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) regulations during market inspection drives.

The committee emphasised the need for surveys and case studies to identify the causes behind the rising incidence of substance abuse among youth.

Awareness programmes being conducted by the police department and promotion of the Tele-MANAS mental health helpline (14416) through the Information Department were also discussed.

Dr. Padma Angmo presented updates regarding rehabilitation and counselling efforts at the de-addiction centre. She also expressed concern over the increasing involvement of women and minors in substance abuse cases and suggested involving child welfare authorities wherever necessary.

During the meeting, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Changthang, Nitish Rajora, suggested a coordinated awareness and enforcement mechanism involving tehsildars, ASHA workers, school heads, hostel wardens, and police personnel.

The Deputy Commissioner Leh also directed the manager of the District De-Addiction Centre (DDAC), Leh, to improve the functioning of the centre within seven days.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment towards strengthening awareness, rehabilitation, and enforcement measures to combat drug abuse in the district.